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Astrid Taran, Forbes Staff
Forbes Vetted
The best resorts in Costa Rica allow travelers to immerse themselves in the country’s famously laid-back way of life. From zip-lining adventures through the jungle to enjoying delicious locally-grown coffee, these properties spotlight the country’s incredible biodiversity by building experiences around its awe-inspiring flora and fauna.
My top recommendation is Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo, thanks to its superb location and impeccable service, while luxury lovers will want to book the opulent Nekajui, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve. Couples will enjoy the romantic Origins Lodge while adventure seekers are sure to thrive at Nayara Tented Camp. Read on to see the best resorts in Costa Rica for 2025.
Editor’s Picks:
Best Resort In Costa Rica Overall: Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica At Peninsula Papagayo
Guest room at Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica At Peninsula Papagayo
Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica At Peninsula Papagayo
Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica At Peninsula Papagayo
Who Will Love It: Discerning travelers who value privacy, luxury amenities and impeccable service
All-Star Amenities: 18-hole Arnold Palmer-designed golf course; six restaurants; three pools; kids club; tennis courts; surf school
What Not To Miss: Yoga classes, sound healing and cacao ceremonies at the hilltop wellness shala
Location: Peninsula Papagayo
Overlooking the Pacific Ocean and northwest coastline (yet just a 45-minute drive from the Guanacaste Airport), Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo enjoys a superb location with direct access to two pristine beaches. Its vicinity to the ocean—alongside its excellent service, high-end amenities and wide range of activities for all ages—make it stand out among Costa Rica’s rapidly expanding hotel scene. Following a recent renovation in 2023, accommodations here include modern suites with plunge pools, multi-bedroom villas or guest rooms with screened-in terraces. There’s also an 18-hole Arnold Palmer-designed golf course, a state-of-the-art wellness shala and a remodeled kids club. To cap off an active day, foodies have multiple high-end dining outlets to choose from, including Italian outlet Pesce, the Virador Beach Club and the wood-fired Latin grill at Bahia.
Best High-End Resort In Costa Rica: Nekajui, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Guest room at Nekajui, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Nekajui, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Nekajui, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Who Will Love It: Well-heeled travelers seeking an opulent stay in the center of it all
All-Star Amenities: Three pools; kid’s club; spa
What Not To Miss: A stay in one of the property’s three luxury tents
Location: Peninsula Papagayo
Following its February 2025 opening, Nekajui (translating to “lush garden” in the language of Costa Rica’s indigenous Chorotegan people) became the eighth uber-luxe Ritz-Carlton Reserve property in the hotel brand’s portfolio. Surrounded by 250 acres of nature, guests here can fully immerse themselves in three distinct ecosystems and endless outdoor pursuits, include hiking, surfing, zip-lining, scuba diving and snorkeling. Of course, those who check in here come for the full luxury experience, which begins with 107 rooms that feature floor-to-ceiling glass doors and ocean-facing balconies. Friendly, white-glove service from a dedicated “mantu” (or friend) is meticulous and unobtrusive, while delectable dining includes Peruvian fare at the property’s signature restaurant, Puna, and excellent coffee—some of which is brewed on-site—at Café Rincon.
Best Value Resort In Costa Rica: Santarena Hotel
Exterior of Santarena Hotel in Las Catalinas, Costa Rica.
Santarena Hotel
Santarena Hotel
Who Will Love It: Activity-minded guests who want plenty to do without breaking the bank
All-Star Amenities: Guests-only activities; a concierge service to set up outdoor pursuits
What Not To Miss: The gin cart on the rooftop terrace
Location: Las Catalinas
This colonial-style hotel in car-free beach town Las Catalinas can be nabbed for under $300 a night during the country’s peak season (December to April). Given its many amenities—including prime access to nearby Danta Beach, a rooftop terrace with a pool, and several guests-only activities like beach barbecues, wine tastings and zip-lining tours, the property is an excellent value stay. The 45 rooms here include many adjoining options, making it a great fit for both small and large groups; all rooms feature modern design and floor-to-ceiling windows overlook the Las Catalinas’ Plaza Almendros. There are three Mediterranean-style eateries on-site, including the signature Ponciana restaurant, and travelers who want to explore their surroundings are just steps away from venues like the wellness-focused Center of Joy and the local brewery, Papagayo Brewing Company.
Best Boutique Resort In Costa Rica: Hotel Aguas Claras
Exterior view of accommodation at Hotel Aguas Claras.
Hotel Aguas Claras
Hotel Aguas Claras
Who Will Love It: Art and design lovers; boutique hotel lovers seeking a colorful and soulful stay
All-Star Amenities: Local art; minibar with Costa Rican drinks and snacks; open-air showers; organic toiletries
What Not To Miss: The Jaguar Rescue Center near the hotel
Location: Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
Costa Rica’s lesser-visited Caribbean coast is ideal for travelers who appreciate off-the-beaten-path destinations, and Hotel Aguas Claras is a hidden jewel among the area’s white sand beaches and swaying palm trees. Family-owned and run by a creative mother-daughter duo, this intimate, boho-chic boutique hotel (there are just nine bungalows and six suites) is filled with colorful murals, watercolor paintings, mosaics, up-cycled furniture and other original works that reflect Costa Rica’s free-spirited southeast corner. Some of the bungalows have private plunge pools and verandas, allowing you to bask in the sights and sounds of the jungle. Guests can also head to the DaLime Beach Club for Afro-Caribbean cuisine and cocktails, and borrow bikes to explore the hidden gems in town.
Best Wellness Resort In Costa Rica: Hotel Nantipa
Bungalow view at Hotel Nantipa.
Julian Trejos
Hotel Nantipa
Who Will Love It: Yogis; surfers; wellness lovers
All-Star Amenities: Private plunge pools; outdoor showers; private terraces with hammocks; on-site wellness center
What Not To Miss: The Blue Wellness Experience, which offers customized fitness classes, meals and health-focused amenities
Location: Santa Teresa
A favorite of surfers and yogis, the intimate Hotel Nantipa offers 29 modern bungalows, villas and suites in the charming beach town of Santa Teresa. Perched on the Nicoya Peninsula, it also happens to be located in one of the world’s famous Blue Zones—areas in which locals live longer thanks to healthy diets, plenty of exercise and a strong sense of purpose. Taking that to heart, the property offers plenty of community activities, like beach clean-ups and yoga classes, as well as a restaurant focused on clean eating, with local dishes served alongside fresh seafood. True wellness aficionados should make sure to book the Blue Wellness Experience, a package that includes customized yoga and meditation classes, nature excursions, nutritious meals and more health-focused amenities.
Best Resort In Costa Rica For Families: Silvestre Nosara Hotel & Residences
Suite at Silvestre Nosara Hotel And Residences.
Silvestre Nosara Hotel And Residences
Silvestre Nosara Hotel & Residences
Who Will Love It: Families and groups looking for a residential-style hotel with surfing and wellness amenities
All-Star Amenities: Rooftop infinity pool; fully equipped kitchens; washers and dryers; surf concierge with Jim Banks performance surfboards; wellness studio; Le Labo toiletries; Marshall speakers; barrel saunas and ice baths
What Not To Miss: Poolside cocktails and stargazing on the rooftop terrace
Location: Nosara
Home to world-class surfing and picturesque beaches, the coastal town of Nosara has long been a favorite destination among families seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation. With the debut of Silvestre Nosara, which opened just steps from the sand and waves of Playa Guiones in February 2024, it’s even easier to feel at home. The property’s nine luxurious residences offer two bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, fully equipped kitchens, washers and dryers and ample space ideal for families or multi-generational groups. An on-site concierge can arrange everything from private chef-prepared dinners to grocery delivery (the hotel works with more than 25 local producers). Delicious Blue Zone-inspired breakfasts, access to the on-site wellness studio and surfboards are also included in the rate.
Best Resort In Costa Rica For Couples: Origins Lodge
Exterior of Origins Lodge.
Origins Lodge
Origins Lodge
Who Will Love It: Honeymooners and couples craving a tranquil, off-the-grid getaway
All-Star Amenities: Panoramic terraces; private plunge pools; outdoor fireplaces; binoculars; house-made Ylang-Ylang bath products; outdoor showers
What Not To Miss: Exploring the area’s rural trails on horseback
Location: Upala
Comprised of six one-bedroom circular lodges and a three-bedroom villa nestled within 111 acres of jungle, days at the intimate Origins Lodge can be spent hiking, practicing yoga, indulging in spa treatments featuring local ingredients and visiting the organic gardens. It’s an ideal stay for active couples, or duos who want to cozy up and take in lush views of the surrounding vegetation. The property features a natural lagoon as well as a small farm with chickens for organic eggs and a cow for daily house-made cheese. With an impressive culinary program overseen by acclaimed French chef Jean-Luc L’Hourre, those locally sourced ingredients can be enjoyed each night over a relaxing candlelit dinner.
Best Resort In Costa Rica For Groups: Hacienda AltaGracia, An Auberge Resorts Collection
La Brisas pool area at Hacienda AltaGracia, Auberge Resorts Collection.
Courtesy of Auberge Resorts Collection
Hacienda AltaGracia, Auberge Resorts Collection
Who Will Love It: Groups; multi-generational families
All-Star Amenities: Equestrian stables; terraces with heated private plunge pools; spa facilities at Casa de Agua, Wellbeing by Auberge; charter flights from Juan Santamaría International Airport; complimentary minibar with house-made snacks
What Not To Miss: The weekly Cienfuegos rodeo barbecue dinner experience
Location: Pérez Zeledón
With just 50 luxury casitas set on 180 acres of lush tropical forest in the Talamanca Mountains, Hacienda AltaGracia offers an elevated, nature-immersive retreat. The property’s one- and two-bedroom casitas are ideal for groups or multi-generational families seeking a serene escape. Here, the adventure begins as soon as you touch down on the resort’s private airstrip and meet your Compa—a dedicated trip designer who will help you create a personalized itinerary of adventures. Depending on your preferences, that could be horseback riding, surfing lessons, waterfall hikes or cutting-edge spa treatments at the on-site Casa de Agua, Wellbeing by Auberge. Meanwhile, kids ages five to 12 can explore a rope course, butterfly garden, and other activities at the Junior Adventurers’ Club.
Best Resort In Costa Rica For Foodies: Casa Chameleon At Las Catalinas
Villa with plunge pool at Casa Chameleon at Las Catalinas.
Courtesy of Casa Chameleon at Las Catalinas
Casa Chameleon At Las Catalinas
Who Will Love It: Eco-conscious epicureans looking for unique culinary experiences
All-Star Amenities: Private saltwater plunge pools; minibar with local products; in-room snack menu; organic, locally made toiletries
What Not To Miss: Dinner with a view at the award-winning Sentido Norte restaurant
Location: Las Catalinas
This adults-only property stands out for its excellent service, sustainability initiatives and tranquil atmosphere with just 21 private villas—each equipped with infinity plunge pools. Gourmands in particular will be delighted with the resort’s high-quality and varied dining options, including the open-air restaurant Sentido Norte, where diners can enjoy breathtaking sunset views and a menu that celebrates farm-to-table Costa Rican cuisine. Wine lovers will want to snag one of the dozen seats at Grotto 12, an intimate restaurant in a wine cave with bottles from around the world. At La Pampa Grill, steaks, ribs and catch-of-the-day seafood are slow-cooked over a traditional open-fire barbecue. Meanwhile, the plant-forward Green House offers a verdant private dining space featuring inventive vegetarian and pescatarian menus.
Best Eco-Lodge Resort In Costa Rica: Lapa Rios Lodge
Lapa Rios Lodge exterior view.
Courtesy of Lapa Rios Lodge
Lapa Rios Lodge
Who Will Love It: Wildlife lovers keen to explore Central America’s last remaining tropical lowland rainforest
All-Star Amenities: Wellies for hiking; naturally sourced bath products; outdoor showers
What Not To Miss: A trip to Corcovado National Park, considered to be one of the most biodiverse areas on the planet
Location: Osa Peninsula
Comprised of 17 bungalows, the Osa Peninsula’s Lapa Rios Lodge protects more than 1,000 acres of primary and secondary rainforest. But the property’s sustainable ethos goes beyond merely being plastic-free; the resort employs an all-local staff and works with nonprofit organizations to build solar panels and implement water pumps in nearby communities. It also shelters some of the world’s rarest wildlife: Guests can look forward to spotting all of Costa Rica’s monkey species, the three-toed sloth, tapir, the silky anteater, poison dart frogs and more than 300 bird species. Birdwatchers will be even more overjoyed when they step into the elevated bungalows and villas, ideal for spotting the scarlet macaws the property was named after.
Best Spa Resort In Costa Rica: Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa
Honeymoon suite with plunge pool at Tabacón Thermal Resort And Spa.
Courtesy of Tabacón Thermal Resort And Spa
Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa
Who Will Love It: Spa enthusiasts who dream of recharging in nature
All-Star Amenities: Early access to natural hot springs; in-room jacuzzis; turn-down service; private balconies
What Not To Miss: The Shangri La Gardens, an adults-only lounge exclusively open to guests
Location: La Fortuna
Set amidst a 900-acre rainforest reserve at the base of Arenal Volcano, Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa offers the country’s largest and most famous collection of naturally flowing hot springs. While its impressive hydrotherapy circuit is also open to daytime visitors, guests who stay at the resort get exclusive access to the thermal waters for two hours before the spa opens to the public, allowing them to beat the crowds. The property’s scenic spa is particularly a showstopper, incorporating local ingredients (think volcanic mud, coffee, and lemongrass) in open-air bungalows hidden among the trees. After a day of adventuring, 105 guest rooms and suites offer a tranquil respite, while two restaurants and four bars serve nutritious and tasty delights like Costa Rican oysters and fresh palm heart salad.
Best Adventure Resort In Costa Rica: Nayara Tented Camp
Casa Paloma 3 at Nayara Tented Camp.
Brice Ferre
Nayara Tented Camp
Who Will Love It: Glampers
All-Star Amenities: Private terraces; hot spring-fed plunge pools; a-la-carte room service breakfast; indoor and outdoor showers; complimentary laundry service
What Not To Miss: The on-site sloth sanctuary, where the property has planted over 1,000 Cecropia trees
Location: La Fortuna
Taking a cue from the ultra-luxe safari lodges in Africa and Asia, Nayara Tented Camp offers travelers a glamping experience with all the plush comforts of a high-end hotel. Its 39 canvas tents, all perched on a hillside, are outfitted with freestanding tubs, canopy beds, and expansive terraces with plunge pools and views of the Arenal Volcano. Adventure lovers in particular will feel at home here—from white water rafting and traversing hanging bridges to walking across a dried lava bed, there are no shortage of adrenaline-pumping activities to take part in. And for those eager to excite their palate, there’s a slew of gastronomy experiences—from mixology classes and coffee cupping sessions to elaborate dinners at the Mediterranean restaurant, Ayla.
Openings We’re Looking Forward To
We update this story regularly to monitor the best resorts in Costa Rica for 2025, including the newest properties that are worth a look.
- Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique: Set to open in May 2025, Costa Rica’s first Waldorf Astoria will sit at the bottom of a scenic, 300-foot cliff in Guanacaste and feature 148 guest rooms and 40 suites. Our full review is coming soon.
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
The Forbes Vetted travel team has researched, written and published dozens of hotel guides featuring cities across the globe.
- The travel section is overseen by Vetted’s senior travel editor, Astrid Taran, an 8-year industry veteran who’s visited over 40 countries, including Costa Rica.
- The editor of this story is Forbes Vetted’s executive editor, Dave Johnson. He has visited cities throughout Europe, though most of his travels have been in support of his scuba diving addiction throughout the Pacific and Caribbean.
How We Chose The Best Resorts In Costa Rica
We selected the top contenders based on personal stays as well as extensive research.
- For this story, Taran combined first-person experience at hotels she’s stayed at and spent hours combing through reviews on TripAdvisor, Booking.com, hotel websites and more.
- We included options that are both family-friendly and couples-oriented. For our family options, we prioritized properties that also offer amenities that adults can enjoy. We also included a selection of larger resorts as well as intimate boutique stays.
- We featured properties across a wide range of destinations in Costa Rica, ranging from the popular Peninsula Papagayo to the Osa Peninsula and the country’s Caribbean Coast.
About Astrid Taran, Your Costa Rica Guide
My name is Astrid Taran and I’m the senior travel editor at Forbes Vetted, where I oversee hotel coverage. I have covered travel for almost a full decade as both a writer and editor. Along with extensively writing about hotels and airlines, I have also written multiple destination guides as well as long-form features on luxury travel, adventure travel, wellness travel and more. Costa Rica is one of my favorite travel destinations thanks to its expansive nature and adventure offerings alongside its beautiful, eco-luxe resorts.
